How long does it take to cruise between Albany and Buffalo on the Erie Canal?

One should budget a minimum of five (5) days to cruise between Albany and Buffalo on the Erie. (The Erie Canal begins at the confluence of the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers at Waterford, just north of Albany, and meets the Niagara River at Tonawanda/North Tonawanda, just north of Buffalo.)

The governing overhead clearances for the various canal sections can be found in the About the Canal System section. Alternatively, they are listed at the top of the NavInfo table for each waterway. Additionally, in these tables the air draft under each overhead structure is listed in tenths of a foot. Even more detailed bridge height information can be found in the Bridge Height Tables. In these tables the "Normal Overhead Clearance" column represents the typical overhead clearances under all but extraordinary conditions (extreme weather/high water events).

An unpermitted dinghy may be towed behind a permitted vessel through canal structures, as long as its motor is off, it is of a configuration that will not cause damage to other vessels (Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) preferred) or snag on lock ladders, is obviously a dedicated landing craft (not a personal watercraft, distressed vessel in tow, etc.), and has the mothership owner's contact information clearly on it (in the event that it becomes disconnected and lost underway).

At its northernmost point in Ticonderoga, Lake George is a few miles away from Lake Champlain. The two are connected by the 3.5 mile long LaChute River, a cascading 225 foot drop, non-navigable waterway. There is, however, portage available through Snug Harbor Marina for boats under 40' in length.

Domesticated animals (excluding exotics) may be brought onto publically accessible canal property (e.g., Lock grounds, Canalway Trail) but must be under the control of the Pet owner at all times. A cage or a leash is recommended. Pet owners should take all appropriate steps to ensure that their enjoyment – and the enjoyment of their Pets – does not negatively impact the enjoyment of the Canal by any other patron.